SOX9
SOX9
SOX9 (pronounced as "socks nine") is a gene that provides instructions for making a protein that plays a critical role in the formation of various tissues and organs during embryonic development.
Etymology
The name "SOX9" is derived from the term "SRY (Sex Determining Region Y)-Box 9". The SOX genes were named because of their homology to the SRY gene, which is critical for male sex determination in mammals. The number "9" indicates that it was the ninth member of the SOX gene family to be discovered.
Function
The SOX9 protein is a transcription factor, which means it attaches (binds) to specific regions of DNA and helps control the activity of certain genes. Researchers believe that the SOX9 protein promotes the development of cells that will form cartilage (chondrocytes) and helps regulate the transformation of cartilage into bone (ossification).
Related Terms
- Chondrocytes: Cells that produce and maintain the cartilaginous matrix, which consists mainly of collagen and proteoglycans.
- Ossification: The process of laying down new bone material by cells called osteoblasts.
- Transcription factor: A protein that controls the rate of transcription of genetic information from DNA to messenger RNA, by binding to a specific DNA sequence.
- Gene: The basic physical and functional unit of heredity. Genes are made up of DNA.
- Protein: Large, complex molecules that play many critical roles in the body. They do most of the work in cells and are required for the structure, function, and regulation of the body's tissues and organs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on SOX9
- Wikipedia's article - SOX9
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